NORTH INDY Blog

A Brief Guide to Spray Foam Insulation | Koala Insulation of North Ind

You have many options for insulating your home. One of the most popular is spray foam insulation, which is sprayed directly into a cavity, where it expands and provides a tight seal against air and moisture. Below, learn more about this type of insulation and the benefits it offers.

What Is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation is made of two primary materials, polyol resin and isocyanate. When these materials come together, they produce a chemical reaction, which creates a foam. Using special applicator tools, the foam is sprayed into open spaces, like attics, crawl spaces, and rim joists. There it expands to fill the entirety of the space and hardens within several seconds to create a strong seal.

This insulation comes in two main types. The closed-cell variety contains closed cells that compress together to prevent air and moisture from getting in; this is ideal for average and larger-sized cavities. The open-cell type has a bit more space between the cells, which creates a looser, spongier fill; this is better suited to small cracks and tight spaces where air typically escapes. 

What Are Its Benefits?

Because spray foam expands to fit the spaces where it is applied, it offers enhanced protection against air, water, and temperature extremes. This makes it easier to keep your home comfortable, and you won't need to use your furnace and air conditioner as frequently. With less use comes lower heating and cooling bills, as well as less HVAC wear and tear, both of which will save you money.

It also prevents condensation from forming inside your walls. Condensation can damage the structure of the wall and encourage mold growth. This isn't an issue when you apply spray foam.

Another benefit is the prevention of ice dams. Ice dams form when heat from the home rises and melts ice and snow on the roof. The water runs down to the edge of the roof, where it is colder, and refreezes there, forming a ridge that blocks further water runoff. The water then backs up and can get under your roof and into your attic. Spray foam in the roof deck locks in heat from the home before it has a chance to reach the roof and melt snow and ice.

Enjoy the benefits of spray foam insulation for your home, comfort, and safety. Koala Insulation of North Indy serves the Greater Indianapolis, IN, area. They provide a variety of insulation solutions, including spray foam, blown-in, and batt varieties, as well as solar attic fan installation and insulation removal. Call (317) 981-2326 to request a quote or visit their website to explore their services in more detail.